‘It is good to see the person as a whole person and… continue to improve our psychologically informed working’: a thematic analysis of clinical psychology trainee placements in homelessness settings.

Abstract

Objectives: the National Framework for Inclusion Health identified the need for collaborative action between the NHS and third sector health to improve access and outcomes for Inclusion Health groups. Clinical Psychology trainee placements in homelessness settings could be a valuable pathway to improving access to psychological support for people experiencing homelessness and the provision of clinical services, key to developing the workforce, and a catalyst for the future recruitment of clinical psychologists in the third sector.

Methods: a qualitative evaluation was conducted using semi-structured interviews to explore the perspectives of clinical psychology trainees, supervisors, staff in homelessness settings and a peer mentor. Twenty-two participants were recruited from two universities and six services across the South East, including 11 clinical psychology trainees, six supervisors, four placement staff, and one peer mentor.

Results: placement staff described the value of a psychological approach but identified some challenges to be overcome. Induction was identified as key to success. Supervisors recognised the breadth and depth added to trainees’ knowledge and skills, alongside significant challenges. Trainees valued the opportunities to work in homelessness settings and develop their understanding of the role. The peer mentor identified collaborative working as especially important.

Conclusions: clinical psychology trainee placements are a necessary programme to fulfil the NHS vision for Inclusion Health. These placements equip the health and social care workforce to create excellent and sustainable provision to improve the physical and mental health for people experiencing homelessness, whilst also providing much needed psychological support for staff.

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Identifiers

ORCID for Becky Ward: orcid.org/0000-0001-7703-8670

ORCID for Nick Maguire: orcid.org/0000-0003-4295-8068

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